January 11, 2025: Alyssa Healy, the Australian wicketkeeper-batter and captain, has rejoined the national team ahead of the Women's Ashes series, which begins this Sunday with the first ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Healy had been recovering from a right foot injury sustained during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup against Pakistan in October, followed by a knee issue during the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL). These injuries sidelined her from the ODI series against India and limited her participation on the New Zealand tour, where she played solely as a batter.
However, with the Women's Ashes approaching, Healy confirmed that she is now fully ready to take up her wicketkeeping duties once again. In a statement, she expressed her confidence, stating, "I'm feeling really good. More importantly, I'm feeling really confident on it to be able to get out there and do that job. I wouldn't be doing it if I felt like I was going to let the team down." Healy admitted there were doubts after her challenging recovery but is now eager to return to her full role on the field.
In Healy's absence, Beth Mooney stepped in as wicketkeeper, while Georgia Voll was promoted to the opening slot, making her debut for Australia against India and impressing with a stellar performance, including a century in the series.
Healy also addressed concerns about her fitness for the entire Ashes series, noting that her participation in each match would depend on how her body responds after each outing. She acknowledged that the team has strong backup options and expressed her desire to keep wicket in every match, but will take it day by day.
On the English side, there are concerns about senior seamer Kate Cross, who has been struggling with back spasms since the tour of South Africa. England’s captain Heather Knight updated on Cross' condition, mentioning that a final decision on her fitness will be made after a training session before the match. If Cross is unavailable, Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer are ready to step in.
The Women's Ashes series is set to begin with a three-match ODI series, followed by three T20Is and a one-off Test, promising an exciting and competitive contest between Australia and England.
